Turn Off This Phone Setting to Make Your Brain Feel 10 Years Younger: Here's How

A recent study by the University of British Columbia suggests that switching off a simple setting on your phone could make your brain feel up to 10 years younger. The research, conducted on 467 iPhone users, revealed that disabling mobile internet for a period of time significantly improved participants’ cognitive health and overall mood. Here’s what the study found and how you can implement this change.

The Study at a Glance

The research, published earlier this year in PNAS Nexus, focused on 467 iPhone users who kept their phones but had their internet access turned off. Instead of completely giving up their devices, participants either turned off mobile data in settings or used an app that blocked internet access.

After roughly a month, participants reported noticeable improvements:

• Increased happiness and satisfaction

• Enhanced focus and attention

• Cognitive performance similar to individuals 10 years younger

• Better engagement with family, friends, and physical activity

• On average, 17 minutes more sleep per day

The study compared the effects to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), showing that small lifestyle changes like reducing internet usage can create measurable mental health benefits.

How Turning Off Internet Helps Your Brain

Improves Focus: Constant notifications and digital distractions can fragment attention. With mobile internet off, your brain can concentrate better.

Boosts Mood: Less exposure to social media and online stressors helps reduce anxiety and increases feelings of satisfaction.

Enhances Sleep: Reduced screen time and fewer notifications lead to better sleep patterns.

Encourages Physical and Social Activity: People tend to spend more time interacting offline and exercising when not glued to their devices.

Step-by-Step: How to Turn Off Internet on Your Phone

While the exact steps vary by phone, the general method is:

For Android:

Open Settings.

Go to SIM cards & mobile networks or Connections.

Tap Mobile Data and switch it Off.

Alternatively, swipe down the notification bar and tap the Mobile Data/Internet icon to disable it instantly.

For iPhone:

Open Settings.

Tap Cellular.

Toggle Cellular Data off.

You can also access Control Center and turn off mobile data from there.

You can keep Wi-Fi on if needed for specific apps but avoid constant online browsing or social media to maximize the cognitive benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Turning off mobile internet for a few days can improve mental health, sleep, and focus.

• Simple adjustments in phone usage can mimic effects similar to cognitive behavioral therapy.

• Spending more time offline encourages better social interactions and physical activity.

By making this small change in your phone settings, you can rejuvenate your brain, feel more energized, and improve your overall wellbeing—without any costly interventions.